Civil Litigation Attorney
Business Breakups and Ownership Disputes
Business relationships can be complicated. Two or more owners might start out with a shared vision, but as the years pass, that alignment can fade. Some owners might want to grow aggressively while others are ready to pull back. Add financial disagreements, unclear responsibilities, or differing priorities into the mix, and suddenly, what once felt like a partnership starts to feel like a standoff.
Some clients come to us quietly, looking for advice on their rights if a co-owner goes rogue. Other times accusations are already flying. We always start with seeking a constructive, cost-effective solution, but wherever things stand, we help clients take a step back, assess the legal picture, and figure out the next move—whether it be negotiation, litigation, or alternative dispute resolution.
How Can We Help?
What Happens When Contract Promises Are Broken
Contracts are everywhere, from the vendors you trust to the people you hire. But contracts only work when both sides follow through. When that doesn’t happen—especially when money or reputation is on the line—we get involved.
Sometimes the breach is obvious. Someone didn’t pay. A service wasn’t delivered. A deal collapsed. Other times, it’s murkier: missed timelines, vague obligations, work that technically got done but didn’t meet the mark. We work with clients to understand what the contract really says, what the facts are, and what outcome they’re after. Some cases settle fast. Others end up in court. Either way, we focus on getting the matter resolved and protecting your position.
Unfair Competition: When a Competitor Crosses the Line
We hear from business owners when a competitor does something that feels off: suddenly poaching key staff, spreading misinformation, or interfering with long-standing customer relationships. These issues can seriously disrupt operations or damage hard-earned trust.
We step in to determine whether what’s happening is just aggressive marketing or something legally actionable, like tortious interference or misappropriation. If it’s the latter, we act quickly and strategically before more damage is done. That could mean a cease-and-desist letter, a demand for damages, or an injunction to stop further harm.
Litigation, When There’s No Other Option
Going to court is expensive, slow, and takes energy away from running your business. But sometimes, it’s the only option. When that happens, you want someone who can handle the pressure and keep things steady.
At DPL, we know how to navigate litigation and understand what’s at stake for our clients. Whether it’s a business dispute, a contract conflict, or a competitor behaving badly, we guide you through the noise and focus on protecting your business and moving forward. We represent clients throughout Dutchess County, Putnam County, and Connecticut.